The United States has begun deploying its advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system in Israel, operated by American soldiers on the ground.

The THAAD system, capable of intercepting ballistic missiles outside Earth’s atmosphere, will operate in coordination with Israel’s “Arrow” defense system. Both systems can divide interception tasks in real-time, offering a critical layer of protection in the event of an Iranian missile strike.

The THAAD deployment underscores increasing concerns that any significant Israeli military action could prompt swift Iranian retaliation. Israel has had a radar system linked to THAAD since 2012, but this is the first time a full missile battery with interceptors has been stationed in the country. The deployment follows years of joint U.S.-Israeli military drills, such as Juniper Cobra, aimed at strengthening the countries’ air defense cooperation.